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Trauma Response Teams: Compassion in Tragic Times

April 6, 2015

When local news reported a body had been found inside a submerged car in Mango Lake, family and friends held their breath, hoping it wasn’t Apryl Foster. Once her identity was confirmed, everyone who knew the energetic and fun-loving 33-year-old was devastated. “It’s unreal knowing that’s where she last was and not knowing whether or not she was suffering or how long she was in the car,” said one of Apryl’s coworkers.

Tragedies, like Apryl Foster’s death, often lead to disturbing emotions that can be challenging to manage. Thankfully, the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay’s Trauma Response Team (TRT) is equipped to provide support and comfort for those facing trauma. Late Sunday night, after Apryl’s body was found, her Ulele co-workers gathered with the Trauma Response Team to work through their grief, sadness and disbelief.

Before the grieving process can begin, individuals need to overcome the initial shock and confusion of the event. Apryl’s co-workers could not believe something so terrible could have happened to such a great person. This is precisely why a Trauma Response Team was immediately assembled and sent to the restaurant. The team was later invited to Apryl’s celebration of life where they continued to provide support.

When a tragedy strikes, the Red Cross is there with water and blankets, but the Trauma Response Teams help those facing the emotional trauma of crisis. Their mission is to provide the best possible support, tailored to each situation and group of people. Their experience in the field allows them to be honest and comfortable enough to handle even the toughest situations.

Trauma Response Team members are trained in Psychological First Aid and Trauma Informed Care. TRT members are sympathetic and supportive listeners and strive to understand individual emotional needs. TRT training and the close-nit connection between team members allows for the utmost level of care for just about any crisis ranging from suicide, natural disasters, robberies, or in the case of Apryl’s loved ones, a sudden death.

Although Trauma Response Teams cannot change the tragedy, they ease the pain by providing help, hope, and healing in a crisis situation.

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Ken Gibson

In the case of an emergency or after-hours requests, please call 2-1-1 (813-234-1234 out of Hillsborough County) to speak with a crisis counselor 24/7 who can get you in touch with a media representative.